What is this medicine?

METHAZOLAMIDE (meth a ZOLE a mide) lowers the pressure within the eye. It is used to treat certain kinds of glaucoma. It is also used before eye surgery.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

adrenal gland disease

diabetes

kidney disease

liver disease

low levels of sodium or potassium in the blood

lung disease

taking aspirin

an unusual or allergic reaction to methazolamide, sulfa drugs, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

aspirin and aspirin-like medicines

diuretics

lithium

mexiletine

pseudoephedrine

quinidine

steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone

stimulant medicines like amphetamine, dextroamphetamine, ephedra

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. If you are diabetic, check your blood sugar as directed.

You may need to be on a special diet while taking this medicine. Ask your doctor. Also, ask how many glasses of fluid you need to drink a day. You must not get dehydrated.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells.

This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

breathing problems

changes in hearing

changes in vision

cloudy, dark urine

numbness, pain, tingling

redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

seizure

unusual bleeding or bruising

unusually weak or tired

yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):